BCHS Historic Marker ProgramThe Society, since 1960, has had a continuing program of designating historic sites in the county with distinctive blue and silver markers. These markers are sponsored and paid for by individuals, clubs, institutions, business organizations and municipalities. It is the Society's most visible program with over 160 large Blue signs in Bergen County, NJ. They are designed to educated the general public with a "mini-history lesson" for a particular site or area and are also helpful in generating interest in historic preservation.

From the very beginning of its history, the Bergen County Historical Society was interested in placing historic markers and monuments to commemorate important places and events in Bergen County. Some of the events listed below.

In 1904, BCHS raised $500 (one fifth the cost) for a base for General Enoch Poor's statue in Hackensack and was involved with erection of the statue and planned the event.

In 1905, a BCHS committee on Historic Places formed a list that included Old Red Mill at Arcola, "Baron Steuben House at New Bridge", Polifly Road, Closter Landing, Col. Baylor's Massacre site, Campground at Paramus, Prevost House at Hohokus and the Mansion House on the Green.

In 1908, BCHS was represented by 17 members on the executive board for the Fort Lee monument.

In 1919, BCHS made plans for a "noble and impressive" Camp Merritt monument and celebration. Gen. John J. Pershing attended.

In 1920, the Protestant Lutheran Church, New Bridge on River Road, Teaneck was marked. BCHS participated in the dedication of the Liberty Pole in 1921.

In 1959, BCHS President Lewis Owen planned the BCHS Historic Marker Program. Over 160 BCHS markers are now found throughout Bergen County.

The Historical Marker Database This website has included BCHS markers. It is a comprehensive list of markers with photos, actual marker text, map locations and links to histories of each marker. Very informative.http://www.hmdb.org/

Refurbishing BCHS Markers1. Sign should be removed from post using an Allen wrench. (If screws are frozen, try WD 40. On very old signs special tools may be required). 2. Take sign to shop and wash with soap and water and rinse well. Let dry. 3. Paint the ENTIRE marker Delft Blue auto enamel (DuPont #93-032.) If not available use equivalent to match our Delft blue color. 4. Sand all raised lettering and rail borders down to aluminum base to give "silver" appearance (except BCHS seal at top). 5. BCHS seal to be painted silver (too detailed to sand). 6. Cover entire sign with clear enamel or lacquer as a preservative.

I have found through trial and error over many years that the above procedure with last longest. To simply paint silver letters in the field will not last for more than a year or two.

Reg has since passed away.The markers are the property of the property owner and BCHS is not responsible for them.

The Bergen County Historical Society, a non-profit, 501(c)(3) volunteer organization, was founded in 1902 to develop public appreciation for Bergen County's remarkable history, especially through the preservation and study of its material culture. We are the only historical association to focus on the Bergen County as a whole, from its prehistory to the present day. Our museum collections are presently on display in a limited basis at Historic New Bridge Landing. Public programs include educational events, placement of informative roadside historical markers, museum exhibits, monthly lectures, library collection, website and message board. We are the largest landowner at HNBL. We are not a government agency and have never received regular or significant public funding, we rely on private donations and membership.

The BCHS is not a government supported agency. We rely on upon volunteer support, especially membership to protect our irreplaceable heritage and to pass on the lessons of history.